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POTASSIUM METABISULFITEICSC: 1175 (May 2018)
Potassium pyrosulfite
Dipotassium disulfite
CAS #: 16731-55-8
EC Number: 240-795-3

  ACUTE HAZARDS PREVENTION FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE & EXPLOSION Not combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.    NO open flames.    In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media.   

 PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST!  
  SYMPTOMS PREVENTION FIRST AID
Inhalation Cough. Shortness of breath. Wheezing.  Use local exhaust or breathing protection.  Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention. 
Skin Redness.  Protective gloves.  Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. 
Eyes Redness. Pain. Burns.  Wear face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.  Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible). Refer immediately for medical attention. 
Ingestion Abdominal pain. Nausea. Vomiting.  Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.  Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention . 

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL CLASSIFICATION & LABELLING
Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Wash away remainder with plenty of water. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. 

According to UN GHS Criteria

corr
DANGER
Causes serious eye damage 

Transportation
UN Classification
 

STORAGE
Cool. Dry. Well closed. Separated from acids and strong oxidants. Keep in a well-ventilated room. 
PACKAGING
 
POTASSIUM METABISULFITE ICSC: 1175
PHYSICAL & CHEMICAL INFORMATION

Physical State; Appearance
WHITE CRYSTALLINE POWDER WITH PUNGENT ODOUR. 

Physical dangers
 

Chemical dangers
Decomposes on heating and on contact with acids. This produces sulfur oxides. Reacts with acids and strong oxidants. This generates fire hazard. The substance is a weak acid. Attacks metals. 

Formula: K2S2O5
Molecular mass: 222.3
Decomposes at 150°C
Relative density (water = 1): 2.34
Solubility in water, g/100ml at 25°C: 49.5 (good) 


EXPOSURE & HEALTH EFFECTS

Routes of exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion. 

Effects of short-term exposure
The substance is corrosive to the eyes. The substance is irritating to the skin, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. Exposure could cause asthma-like reactions or urticaria in sensitive persons. 

Inhalation risk
Evaporation at 20°C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly when dispersed. 

Effects of long-term or repeated exposure
Repeated or prolonged inhalation may cause asthma-like symptoms. The substance may have effects on the skin. 


OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS
 

ENVIRONMENT
Environmental effects of the substance have been adequately investigated, but no significant effects have been found. 

NOTES
 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  EC Classification
Symbol: Xi; R: 31-41; S: (2)-26-39 

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    See Also:
       Toxicological Abbreviations
       Potassium metabisulfite (FAO Nutrition Meetings Report Series 40abc)
       POTASSIUM METABISULFITE (JECFA Evaluation)